Quote by Walter Bagehot

A bureaucracy is sure to think that its duty is to augment official power, official business, or official members, rather than to leave free the energies of mankind; it overdoes the quantity of government, as well as impairs its quality. The truth is, that a skilled bureaucracy is, though it boasts of an appearance of science, quite inconsistent with the true principles of the art of business.

A bureaucracy is sure to think that its duty is to augment o

Summary

This quote suggests that bureaucracies tend to focus on expanding their own power and operations, rather than prioritizing the freedom and potential of individuals. Bureaucratic systems often prioritize quantity over quality, excessively increasing the size of government and undermining its effectiveness. Despite claiming to be scientific and efficient, a competent bureaucracy actually goes against the fundamental principles of effective management. The quote highlights the negative impact that bureaucratic systems can have on innovation, productivity, and the overall success of governmental organizations.

Topics

Bureaucracy

By Walter Bagehot

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